With so much uncertainty in the world right now, it’s so very easy to take a deep breath and wonder how on earth we are going to get through all this. I’m talking about the war in the middle east, a new strain of Covid, uncertainty about fuel supply, the increasing costs of living, political instability, commodity pricing and of course how much it will cost the next time you fill up your vehicle with fuel.
Last Newsy I wrote about boundaries. Today, it’s important to really exercise your boundaries so you see the glass as half full (and not half empty). This will see you take time to identify what you can control and what you can’t and to focus on the things you can. And then to put your energy towards these things and not towards the things you can’t control. This is a really positive way to implement your boundaries and to ensure you give yourself the best chance of not becoming overwhelmed by the things you can’t control. Here’s a reminder….
| Things you can’t control | Things you can control |
| World events | Choices you make |
| The past | Your actions |
| What other people say | Your response |
| Other people’s decisions | The words you choose to use |
| The weather | Your mindset |
| Other people’s opinions | Where you put your energy |
| Unexpected events | Your daily intentions |
| The actions of others | Asking for help |
| What other people feel | Your optimism |
I hear you – this is all very well and good when you are feeling on top of things, and so very much harder when you’re not. I find it a challenge scrolling through social media and seeing posts about things that can’t be controlled. I wonder how many people absorb this. Right now, it’s important to put your mindset into the hope and optimism gear!
“The best leaders tap the optimism of their teams. They strengthen confidence, broaden perspective, and remind people that the future can be better, and that we can help build it together. In uncertain times, people look to leaders for optimism and for a clear vision of the future.
That is why realistic and infectious optimism matters so much in leadership. The infectiously optimistic leader does more than set strategy. They lift the team’s spirits. They bring steadiness in difficulty, confidence in uncertainty, and energy for the work ahead. They help others believe that progress is possible and that their contribution matters.”
– Victor Perton. The Centre for Optimism
Here are some practical tips for moving into the gear of optimism…..
1. In Your Control / Out of Your Control. Remind yourself and others – especially those in your teams about what’s in your control and what isn’t.
2. Don’t Buy In. Scan your social media ,online news, newspaper and TV news reports using the In Your Control and Out of Your Control radar. Give more time to what’s in rather than what’s out of your control.
3. Redirect Your Thinking / Energy. We all have off moments / times. Take extra care to recognise when you become fixated on things you can’t control and remember to move your mindset into the gear of optimism. Put your energy into the things that you can influence.
4. Be Consistent. You will know when you’re becoming overwhelmed by what you are seeing and hearing – especially on social media and in the news. As soon as this happens remind yourself of and turn your energy to what you can control.
5. Radiate the Energy of Optimism. Tap into your own as well as the optimism of your team. Lift your spirits and bring confidence in uncertainty.
Over to You
Do any of these resonate for you? Could any be helpful in your work / relationships today?
